Alexander Sammon
Updated on: October 16, 2024 6:34 pm GMT
In a significant political move, another member of the Duterte family is stepping into the spotlight as Davao City prepares for the 2025 midterm elections. Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II, the 26-year-old son of Representative Paolo Duterte, recently filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) to run for city councilor in Davao City’s first district.
A New Chapter in Davao Politics
Rigo follows in the footsteps of his grandfather, former President Rodrigo Duterte. This makes him the first of this generation of the Duterte clan to declare candidacy for the upcoming elections. He filed his COC on October 2, 2024, accompanied by several family members, including his father, his brother Omar, and his wife Yssa.
– Rigo is currently the chief of staff for his father.
– His candidacy is under the local political party Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod (HTL).
At the filing, Rigo expressed his enthusiasm for serving the community, stating simply that he was “ready to serve the city council.”
Paolo Duterte Remains Undecided
While Rigo is taking this step, his father Paolo, known as “Pulong,” has not made any decisions regarding his own future in politics. During a brief press conference, he emphasized that his family’s discussions about participation in the elections are ongoing.
“I still don’t know yet as of now,” Paolo said. He acknowledged the pressure faced by the family and noted that his wife and sons have shown little interest in political pursuits given the challenges posed by the current administration.
– Paolo did not file a COC himself, instead choosing to support his son’s ambitions.
– He mentioned that political alliances can change, referencing recent shifts where some allies have aligned with Marcos’ party.
The Emerging Political Landscape
Rigo’s entry into the race adds a new dynamic to Davao’s political landscape. The Duterte name is already well-known in the region, which could influence voters in his favor.
Current political alliances are also shifting. In a recent report, Javier Campos III, a councilor in the second district and nephew of a local representative, was seen participating in a Marcos-affiliated event. This could hint at a fracturing among traditional ally groups in Davao City.
– The Garcia clan, long-time allies of the Dutertes, is also aligning with new political forces, highlighting the changes ahead.
Rigo’s decision to run may signal a continued legacy of the Duterte family in city politics, but it also raises questions about the family’s future political strategies, especially with shifting alliances and potential rivalries.
Looking Ahead
As the election season progresses, Rigo Duterte II’s campaign will be closely watched. Many are curious to see how his candidacy might impact local political dynamics.
Engagement with constituents will be key. Rigo will need to address local issues effectively to resonate with voters. His recent statement indicates a commitment to serve, but specific policies and initiatives that he plans to implement remain to be seen.
Conclusion
The rise of Rigo Duterte marks an important moment for Davao City as it prepares for the upcoming elections. His candidacy is a continuation of a family legacy, coming at a time when political support is unpredictable. As old alliances shift and new ones form, Davao City is poised for an interesting election season.
The community is searching for more than just a name; they want leaders who can help solve their problems. What Rigo does next will be very important in shaping his campaign and his role in Davao’s future.
